Perfectly Balanced Dinner: Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables

Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables is a popular meal choice for those looking to enjoy a quick and healthy dinner option. This versatile recipe can be customized based on your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it perfect for busy nights or when you want something comforting yet nutritious.

Ingredients You Will Need

• 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb/450g)
• 1 large onion, sliced thinly
• 2 bell peppers - green and red
• 6 garlic cloves, minced finely
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• ½ cup snow peas or sugar snap peas
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil - canola or vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Garnish: sesame seeds and sliced green onions optional

To begin, cut your chicken breasts into thin strips. Season them with salt and pepper for additional flavor.

Heat up the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the chicken pieces to the pan and stir-fry until they turn golden brown. Set aside on a plate.

Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Servings: Serves 4-6 people, depending on portion size

While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare the vegetables. Slice the bell peppers into strips and slice the onion thinly for even cooking.

Add the onions to the pan first, as they have a longer cooking time than other vegetables. Stir-fry them until they start to soften but still retain their crispness. Add the garlic cloves and cook for another minute or two until fragrant.

Steps to Complete Preparation

1. Add the bell peppers and broccoli florets to the skillet, stir-frying everything together for about 4-5 minutes.
2. When the vegetables are almost done, add the snow peas or sugar snap peas, which take less time than the other vegetables. Stir frequently until just tender but still crunchy.
3. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss with all ingredients. Add soy sauce (tamari) for seasoning. Continue stirring until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as necessary.

Once the dish has been mixed thoroughly, it should be ready within 15-20 minutes after adding the chicken back into the pan. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles if preferred. Garnishing with sesame seeds and green onions can elevate the presentation, but they are not necessary for enjoying this delicious meal.

Healthy Alternatives

For those following a specific diet plan like keto, you could reduce the amount of soy sauce used while keeping it flavorful by adding more vegetables such as cauliflower. Additionally, substituting olive oil for canola or vegetable oil would align better with a Mediterranean diet.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This dish tastes best when freshly made but leftovers are also wonderful! Store any leftover stir-fry in an airtight container inside the refrigerator within two days. To reheat, you can either microwave it for 1-2 minutes or place it on the stovetop over low heat until hot through.

Custom Variations

The basic recipe provided here can be modified to suit various tastes and dietary requirements easily. For instance, substituting beef or tofu for chicken provides a different flavor profile. You might also consider adding other seasonal vegetables such as carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini to vary the taste each time you prepare this dish.

Conclusion

Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables is not only simple to make but also incredibly nutritious and delicious. With its short cooking time and multiple customization options, it's an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or want something special on the weekend, this dish fits well into any meal plan.